The City of Anacortes Planning Commission discussed significant updates to parking regulations during their meeting on September 17, 2025, aimed at aligning local policies with new state laws. These changes are designed to enhance residential development while addressing environmental concerns.

One of the key points highlighted was the new state law that mandates cities to regulate parking for residential uses. This law introduces several requirements, including the allowance of tandem parking configurations and the stipulation that cities cannot mandate that parking spaces be enclosed. Additionally, the law permits the continued use of nonconforming gravel parking areas without requiring upgrades, which could ease the burden on property owners during redevelopment.

The commission also addressed the dimensions of parking spaces, establishing a maximum size of 8 feet wide by 20 feet long. Importantly, the new regulations include provisions for tree retention, stating that if preserving a tree makes a residential project infeasible, the city cannot require off-street parking as a condition for permitting the development.

Commissioner Mills raised concerns about the potential environmental impact of increased impervious surfaces due to parking requirements. He suggested exploring ways to encourage the use of permeable materials, such as interlocking pavers, to mitigate runoff while still complying with state mandates. The city’s stormwater code already requires developers to consider low-impact development solutions, which could support the use of such materials.

These discussions reflect the city’s commitment to balancing development needs with environmental sustainability. As the Planning Commission moves forward, the implementation of these regulations will be closely monitored to ensure they meet community needs while promoting responsible land use.